Dance along Auckland’s famous ribbon of light this May as Sounds of Tāmaki Makaurau meets the tenth anniversary of Te Ara I Whiti - The Lightpath.
A FREE dance event - Dance Your Sillies Out - invites Aucklanders to a playful light and dance experience along Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath for NZ Music Month.
People are encouraged to dance to the beat of an electronic soundtrack on Saturday 16 May, or any other night with the music on your phone until 30 May.
Auckland Council Head of Arts and Culture, Emily Trent, says movement is one of the most powerful forces for connection and wellbeing.
"Dance brings us together in a profound way, enriching our mental and physical health and deepening our sense of community. Movement and music help our truest selves emerge.
“We'd love for you to come join this special experience of artwork and community," she says.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson is a champion of the arts in Auckland, recognising the vital role that cultural activity plays in the wellbeing and vibrancy of the region.
“Auckland is alive with creativity this May - celebrating NZ Music Month, our UNESCO City of Music status, and the tenth anniversary of Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath. Music, dance and light will transform our much‑loved pink path into an experience that’s fun, inclusive and full of the creative energy that defines our city,” she says.
On event night (16 May) – 6pm to 8pm - simple choreography, pulsing coloured lights, and an electronic track co-created with rangatahi (a group of young musicians), will bring new energy and expression to Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath. Rain date: 23 May.
Two dancers will lead groups from either end of the path, teaching moves inspired by moana-nui dance storytelling moves. A ‘learn the moves’ instructional video has been released via @Small_Rave, extending access and encouraging participation.
Dance Your Sillies Out has been produced by SMALL RAVE in collaboration with The Sixxes and Prowl Productions, with lighting design by iion.
In the fortnight after the main event, the light display will continue to play on the Lightpath from 6pm to 6am each night for anyone trying out their moves, with a more ambient version playing from midnight to 6am.
Download the track and bring your own speaker or headphones for the evenings after the initial event. #DanceYourSilliesOut to post your videos.
The event is wheelchair accessible and welcomes all. There will be bright lights, loud music and 400 metres of pink path to dance along in your own way at your own pace.
It is brought to the region by Auckland Council’s Public Art team and Auckland Council Creative Programming.
See @Small_Rave for updated information.